Despite the Rain, Nyepi Ogoh-ogoh Parade at Bundaran HI Draws Crowds

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The 2026 Nyepi Festival featuring a parade of ogoh-ogoh was held in the Bundaran HI area, Central Jakarta, on Sunday (8 March 2026). Observers reported that the parade began at around 07:35 Western Indonesian Time despite light rain. The parade was joined by contingents from various Hindu religious groups in the Jabodetabek area. A number of officials attended to witness the event, including Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung and Jakarta Vice Governor Rano Karno. Also in attendance was Ni Luh Puspa, Deputy Minister of Tourism. In the performance, the Barong ogoh-ogoh added to the story being presented. Subsequently, a contingent from Wanita Hindu Dharma Indonesia also took part in the parade. Wearing red-and-white Balinese kebaya, they walked along the parade route, greeting the residents, Governor Pramono, Vice Governor Rano Karno, and other attendees. The parade was then continued by Betawi Ondel-ondel groups from North Jakarta before being followed by various other participant groups. Not only Barong ogoh-ogoh, but a variety of ogoh-ogoh in the shape of Buta Kala demons also joined the procession. There were ogoh-ogoh shaped like elephants and dragons that drew spectators’ attention. Cheers erupted as large ogoh-ogoh figures were raised high by the participants. Many residents could also be seen recording the moment on their mobile phones.